Beetlejuice: The Ghost with the Most
Ah, “Beetlejuice,” the 1988 classic that made us all think twice before saying someone’s name three times in a row. Directed by the wonderfully weird Tim Burton, this film has become a cult favorite, blending horror, comedy, and a dash of the bizarre. But how did this quirky masterpiece come to be? Let’s dive into the ectoplasmic origins of “Beetlejuice” and take a peek at its much-anticipated sequel.
The Birth of Beetlejuice
The idea for “Beetlejuice” began in the mid-1980s with author Michael McDowell, who was inspired by supernatural hits like “Ghostbusters” and “Poltergeist”. McDowell teamed up with his partner Laurence Senelick to craft a script that was initially much darker than the final product. Enter Tim Burton, the maestro of macabre, who saw potential in the script and decided to add his signature touch of whimsy and weirdness.
The plot revolves around a recently deceased couple, Barbara and Adam Maitland, who find themselves stuck haunting their own home. When the obnoxious Deetz family moves in, the Maitlands seek the help of Betelgeuse (pronounced “Beetlejuice”), a “bio-exorcist” with a penchant for chaos and a fashion sense that screams “undead chic”.
Casting Magic
One of the film’s greatest strengths is its cast. Michael Keaton’s portrayal of Beetlejuice is nothing short of iconic. With his manic energy and grotesque charm, Keaton turned what could have been a creepy character into a lovable anti-hero. Fun fact: Keaton came up with Beetlejuice’s look himself, aiming to make him appear as repulsive as possible. He described his goal as making Beetlejuice look like “an armpit”—which is what the name “Beetlejuice” means. Winona Ryder’s Lydia Deetz, the goth girl with a heart of gold, became an instant icon for misunderstood teens everywhere. And let’s not forget Geena Davis and Alec Baldwin as the endearing Maitlands, who made being dead look like a lot of fun.
A Visual Feast
Tim Burton’s visual style is unmistakable, and “Beetlejuice” is a prime example of his unique aesthetic. The film’s set design, special effects, and makeup were groundbreaking at the time. From the surreal landscapes of the afterlife to Beetlejuice’s grotesque transformations, every frame is a testament to Burton’s creative genius. The film even won an Academy Award for Best Makeup, thanks to the work of artists like Ve Neill and Steve LaPorte.
The Legacy
“Beetlejuice” was a box office success, grossing over $73 million on a $15 million budget. It spawned an animated TV series, video games, and even a stage musical. The character of Beetlejuice has become a pop culture staple, appearing in everything from Halloween costumes to theme park attractions. And let’s be honest, who hasn’t tried to do the “Day-O” dance at least once?
Beetlejuice Beetlejuice: The Sequel
Fast forward to 2024, and the ghost with the most is back! “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice,” the long-awaited sequel, hit theaters on September 6, 2024. Directed once again by Tim Burton, the film sees the return of Michael Keaton as Beetlejuice and Winona Ryder as Lydia Deetz. This time, Lydia’s teenage daughter, Astrid, accidentally opens a portal to the afterlife, unleashing Beetlejuice’s mayhem once more.
The sequel promises to bring back the dark humor and visual flair that made the original a hit. With a new generation of Deetzes and the same old Beetlejuice, it’s bound to be a wild ride. So, grab your popcorn, say his name three times, and get ready for some spooky fun.
In conclusion, “Beetlejuice” remains a beloved classic, thanks to its unique blend of horror, comedy, and Tim Burton’s unmistakable style. The upcoming sequel is sure to reignite our love for the mischievous ghost and his wacky antics. Just remember, if you ever find yourself in need of a bio-exorcist, you know who to call. Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice, Beet….
Sources: Ball State Daily : Wikipedia : Variety : IMDb : Mental Floss